Improving mental health support for young people living with HIV in Nigeria
An interactive, narrative intervention to address the mental health treatment gap among young people living with HIV in Nigeria
This study is looking to help young people in Nigeria who are living with HIV and struggling with feelings of sadness and stress by offering a fun and engaging way to improve their mental health, making it easier for them to stick to their HIV care.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Massachusetts General Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10929544 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on addressing the mental health treatment gap for young people living with HIV in Nigeria, where high rates of depression and psychological distress negatively impact their adherence to HIV care. The project will implement an interactive narrative intervention designed to engage these young individuals and improve their mental health outcomes. By utilizing task-shifted problem-solving therapy, the research aims to provide accessible mental health support through non-specialized health workers. The approach is tailored to the unique needs of adolescents in this context, aiming to enhance their overall well-being and treatment adherence.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are young people aged 15-24 living with HIV who are experiencing depression or psychological distress.
Not a fit: Patients who are not living with HIV or those who do not experience mental health challenges may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve mental health outcomes and treatment adherence for young people living with HIV in Nigeria.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success with task-shifted problem-solving therapy in similar populations, indicating a promising approach for this intervention.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- Massachusetts General Hospital — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ahonkhai, Aimalohi — Massachusetts General Hospital
- Study coordinator: Ahonkhai, Aimalohi
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.